Craving that delicious, sticky, and flavorful Sesame Chicken you find at restaurants? Now you can make it right at home with this easy recipe. With crispy chicken bites coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat. Pair it with rice or your favorite side for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Sesame Chicken
To make this dish, you’ll need a mix of ingredients for the crispy chicken and the delicious sesame sauce.
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sesame Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Green onions for garnish
Optional Add-Ons:
- Air-fried garlic shrimp for an extra protein option
- Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies on the side
Preparing the Chicken
The key to perfect Sesame Chicken is getting the chicken bites crispy before tossing them in the flavorful sesame sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Coat the Chicken:
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Then, dip each piece into the beaten egg, followed by a coating of cornstarch to create a crispy texture.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
If you’re looking for a lighter cooking method, try making air-fried chicken for a healthier, yet still crispy, option.
Making the Sesame Sauce
The sauce is what makes Sesame Chicken stand out. It’s sweet, savory, and perfectly thick, sticking to each crispy bite of chicken.
How to Make the Sauce:
- Combine Sauce Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and hoisin sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Pour the sauce mixture into a heated pan over medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce.
- Add the Chicken:
- Toss the fried chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and green onions on top for added flavor and texture.
For a fun twist, serve this dish with a side of homemade fried rice to complete the meal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This Sesame Chicken is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your taste. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a more balanced meal.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lighter Option: Skip the frying and use air-fried chicken or even baked chicken for a healthier alternative.
Serve with a side of green power smoothie or a refreshing green detox juice for a nutritious and satisfying pairing.
Why You’ll Love Sesame Chicken
This recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crispy. The homemade sesame sauce brings out the best in the fried chicken, making it a satisfying dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, Sesame Chicken is a dish that delivers both flavor and comfort.
Pair this with spicy Brazilian coconut chicken for a fun, flavorful combination of savory chicken dishes.
FAQs About Sesame Chicken
1. Can I make this recipe with chicken breast?
Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier, but chicken breasts work just as well and are leaner.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or a skillet to keep the chicken crispy.
3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, baking the chicken is a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. What can I serve with sesame chicken?
Serve it with steamed rice, fried rice, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.